Share this

Living Free - May 23, 2014

"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:19 NIV

Thoughts for Today

This week we have looked at practical matters about finances--budgeting, avoiding debt, tithing, and sharing with others. In all these practical matters, there is one thing no Christian should ever forget. Our ultimate source and supply is God Himself. He promises to meet all our needs.

People may fall into the trap of thinking their jobs or investments are the source of their income. But God gives us the ability to work. And when we lose our job or our investments fail, we have not lost our source. God is still there and He will provide.

In the chaotic world of today, we can easily fall into the trap of fear, worrying about our future. Many have lost their jobs and even their homes. But God has promised never to leave us or forsake us. If we keep our eyes on Him, we will find security and hope.

Consider this …

God wants us to plan--but never to worry (Matthew 6:25-34).

If we have spent money foolishly and run up a large debt, we should not give up. We need to ask God's forgiveness, and then trust Him to help us work our way out of the debt, step-by-step.

Maybe we are struggling financially through no fault of our own. Our company downsized and we lost our job … We counted on our retirement funds but the company has failed … Our spouse was the breadwinner and is suddenly gone--either through death or divorce. No matter what our circumstances, we must remember that God is our source. He is our provider. He loves us and is walking through the valley with us. He will meet our needs in His way and His time. His plan is always the best one. We need to learn to stop worrying and start trusting God for His guidance and provision.

Prayer

Father, forgive me for sometimes focusing on my own needs and wants to the point I am not sensitive to the needs of others. Help me to show Jesus' love to others by giving generously and cheerfully of my time and money. In Jesus' name …

These thoughts were drawn from …The Single Christian: Living as One in a World of Twos by Dr. Elizabeth Holland. In a world where everyone seems to have a mate, it is difficult to live life as a single person. Whether you have never been married, are divorced or are widowed, this study is for you. In The Single Christian, Dr. Holland examines many of the different facets of singleness, from rejection; bitterness and unforgiveness; loneliness; to dating; single parenting and the positives of being single. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals.